'Earth-shaking boom': Explosion at Maui beach resort injures 7 people
Officials in Maui are investigating a Thursday night explosion at a beach resort that reportedly injured more than a half-dozen people, sending several to hospitals.
The blast took place just before 6:15 p.m. (HST) at a set of condos on Kaanapali Beach located on the northwest part of the island in Hawaii, according to the Maui Police Department.
At least seven people, ranging from ages 18 to 74, suffered injuries, police reported. Three suffered critical injuries and one was taken by medical helicopter to a local hospital.
Officers responded to an address at The Whaler Resort on Kāʻanapali Parkway for a report of a "miscellaneous accident," the department posted on its Facebook page.
The beach resort is about a 40 minute drive from the island's capital of Kahului.
Video shows moment explosion happens at Maui beach resort
What was cause of explosion at Maui resort?
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion may have involved liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which supplies common area BBQs,” Maui police said. “Witness statements indicate a possible grill malfunction before the incident.”
No evacuations were conducted, police said.
A witness, David Flint, told Hawaii News Now that he was swimming at the pool at a Sheraton "and suddenly there was this huge, earth-shaking boom."
"We know it’s a real crowded area and it was pretty scary," he told the outlet. "It was definitely surreal.”
Public being asked to avoid area
In its initial statement, police said updates will be provided as more information becomes available and were asking the public to avoid the area while officials investigate.
Photos captured by local outlet Hawaii News Now show first responders and others assisting victims outside near the beach.
This story has been updated to add new information.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for Paste BN. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.